ACRA finds permanent home in Aspen

After years of moving, the Aspen Chamber Resort Association has announced what will hopefully be its final move into a permanent space. 

ACRA is planning to make the Obermeyer building home, after searching for a spot since 2016. The organization is currently under contract to purchase 501 Rio Grande Pl, Unit 104, which will become set after a 30 days due diligence process.

“This is a milestone for ACRA,” ACRA President and CEO Debbie Braun told The Aspen Times. “Having a permanent home in Aspen is about more than office space — it ensures the Chamber’s long-term presence in the community we serve.”

According to minutes from ACRA’s board meeting last Tuesday, Sept. 30, the organization’s “strong financial management over the past 25 years” made the acquisition possible. A task force was formed in June 2024 that included board members, bankers, and legal advisors to identify the right property. 

ACRA ultimately made an accepted $3.6 million offer on the Obermeyer space, which includes four parking spots. The financing plan draws $2 million from savings for the down payment and leaves “adequate reserves” to cover six months of operating costs, minutes confirm. 

The 2,200 square feet of space will be tailored to fit ACRA’s needs, Braun confirmed, but there will be no major structural changes. The configuration will house both the Chamber and Destination Marketing staff under one roof.

“That means some modest improvements to create collaborative work areas, offices, and meeting space,” Braun said. “Our focus is really on functionality and making sure it’s a productive, welcoming home for our team.”

Taking into account the improvements, transaction closing, relocation, and the building’s availability, Braun said the timeline is looking like May 2026 will be the estimated move-in period. ACRA’s current lease at the Armory ends May 31, 2026. Closing is scheduled for April 30, 2026. 

“With the rising costs of rent, the city of Aspen and ACRA both recognized that ownership is the most sustainable way forward,” Braun said. “It gives us stability, allows us to focus our resources on serving members, and reinforces our commitment to Aspen’s future. Personally, after years of searching, I’m thrilled that we’ll finally have a place to call our own.”